As I write this latest post I am excited to share a concept that I discovered in reading Ron Luce's book "Recreate".  The subtitle of his book reads "Building a culture in your home stronger than the culture deceiving your kids".  With my work in EYC Ministries redefining and transforming the culture is absolutely critical to the evangelization of the youth.  That culture transformation cannot take place without the definement of core values that strengthen and enhance the family unit according to Gods eternal design and plan.  Here in lies the concept utilized by Ron Luce and his family which I have chosen to implement in mine and would challenge those of you reading this to jump on board as well in order that we as one body can make a difference in the lives of the youth.  It all starts with establishing a covenant within your family that upholds your Godly core values and making it creative enough to make a lasting visual impression which will reside deep within the spirits of your children for as long as they live.  In following the example within "Recreate" my family chose to establish a Constitution of sorts.  In today's society many liberal judges and politicians are making a habit of trying to redefine our Country's Constitution rather then ascribe to its law as is.  Within the Dingeldine Home our Constitution was founded on Godly principles that are the same yesterday, today and forevermore and cannot and will not be changed under any circumstances.  After much prayer and discussion with my wife, together we established four core values that we desired to be the foundation of our family.  To quote Ron Luce from his book, "If nothing else, what are the four or five characteristics that you would like to roll off the tongue when people think of your family".  This can be a sobering answer or one that personifies the fruits of the spirit and that is my prayer for those of you reading this right now.  If we as parents truly evangelize our youth and establish our own family core values then we can transform the culture in a Godly and positive manner.
    In closing don't just stop with creating your Constitution.  Have fun with the family and create excitement over the signing of each family member with a pizza party, ice cream or whatever brings fun, joy and anticipation to your home.  Bring the family together and make clear that from this day forward we will work together to shape our lives around this Constitution.  The children must also realize that the parents are subject to these values as well and that everyone is at the same level in terms of confronting each other as long as it is done in a respectful manner.  I truly believe this can and will be a watershed moment your family as it was for mine.  I have included below the first draft of the Dingeldine Constitution before it was signed by the family as an example.  We had a great deal of fun trying to model it after the Constitution of the United States.  Now all that is left is for you to build your house upon Godly core values that are clearly defined and understood. God Bless. Dingeldine Constitution Example